Research Assistant

Job Description

Overview

Assists researchers in planning, maintaining or completing research programs and/or projects involved in the discovery of new knowledge, techniques, and concepts which require fundamental scientific/research knowledge, skills and abilities following relevant policies, procedures, regulations and laws.

Responsibilities

• Conduct eDNA laboratory procedures, including sample collection

and filtration, DNA extraction, PCR/qPCR amplification, and potentially library preparation for high-throughput sequencing to generate metabarcoding eDNA data

• Accurately track and manage samples using a Laboratory

Information Management System (LIMS) or equivalent data management tools

• Follow and help maintain standard operating procedures in

alignment

• Assist in quality control assessments of molecular data and

ensure accurate documentation of results and lab activities

• Participate in bioinformatic preprocessing and analysis of

sequencing data

• Collaborate with team members to support field sampling and

sample intake

• Contribute to the preparation of technical reports,

presentations, and manuscripts as appropriate

• Maintain rigorous contamination control by adhering to clean

laboratory protocols

• Maintain laboratory organization, inventory, and

cleanliness

• Perform other duties as assigned in support of eDNA

research

Qualifications

Level II:

• Bachelor's degree and 2 years of experience in research

practices and protocols. Molecular lab experience, such as DNA extractions, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing workflows, and quantitative PCR (qPCR).

Level III:

• Bachelor's degree and 4 years of experience in research

practices and protocols. Molecular lab experience, such as DNA extractions, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing workflows, and quantitative PCR (qPCR).

Level IV:

• Bachelor's degree and 6 years of experience in research

practices and protocols. Molecular lab experience, such as DNA extractions, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing workflows, and quantitative PCR (qPCR).

Desired Qualifications

• Molecular Laboratory Techniques: Proficient in using Laboratory

Information Management Systems (LIMS) and performing standard molecular techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, sequencing workflows, and quantitative PCR
(qPCR).

• Attention to Detail & Standard Operating Policy Compliance:

Meticulous record-keeping skills and the ability to follow standard operating procedures

• Genomics Research Support: Experience in laboratory aspects of

genomics research, including primer design, mitochondrial genome assembly, and sequence data analysis for target genes and metabarcoding datasets.

• Scientific Literacy: Understanding of relevant scientific

disciplines (e.g., conservation genetics, ecology, molecular biology) to support informed decision-making.

• eDNA Laboratory Experience: Previous hands-on experience

working in an eDNA laboratory setting.

• Software Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and

PowerPoint for documentation, data management, and presentations

SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED FOR EXPERIENCE: Yes, When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.

Contract Type

Limited Term

Why Work at Auburn?

• Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through

research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.

• Culture of Excellence: We are committed to leveraging

our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.

• We’re Here for You: Auburn offers generous benefits,

educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.

• Sweet Home Alabama: The Auburn/Opelika area offers

southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.

• A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering

an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.

• Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education?

Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement

It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal
Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.

Posted Date

11/9/2026